Research Opportunities
Student Research Assistant - cognitive neuroscience, immersive learning, and human-subject experimental design
Description:
This project investigates the effectiveness of immersive virtual reality (VR) in neuroscience education using a structured, block-based learning design. The study examines how different learning modalities (VR 3D, VR 2D, and traditional 2D computer-based learning) influence knowledge acquisition, engagement, and physiological responses.
The undergraduate research assistant will participate in a year-long research experience and will receive structured training prior to active involvement in the study.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
Assist with participant recruitment and scheduling (primarily undergraduate students)
Support data collection sessions, including VR-based learning tasks and post-test assessments
Help prepare and set up research equipment (VR headset and non-invasive sensors such as heart rate and respiration monitors)
Monitor study sessions to ensure protocol adherence and participant safety
Assist with data organization, entry, and basic quality checks
Maintain accurate documentation of research activities
Training Provided:
Human subjects research and IRB procedures (e.g., confidentiality, informed consent)
Operation of VR systems and experimental protocols
Introduction to behavioral and physiological data collection
Timeline:
Summer (prior to September 2026): Optional training and study setup
Academic year 26-27: Active involvement in recruitment and data collection
This position is designed as a credit-bearing research experience for psychology undergraduate students and may be taken for academic credit as a Psychology independent study (e.g., PSYC 397), subject to departmental approval.
Required:
Strong interest in psychology, neuroscience, or related fields
Responsible, detail-oriented, and able to follow research protocols
Good communication and organizational skills
Ability to commit to a year-long research experience
Preferred (not required):
Prior coursework in psychology, neuroscience, or research methods
Interest in human subjects research or experimental design
Basic familiarity with data collection or lab environments
Interest in virtual reality, technology, or behavioral/physiological measurement
No prior experience with VR or physiological equipment is required; all necessary training will be provided.
Appropriate major(s): Psychology, integrative neuroscience, or related fields
Faculty Advisor: Danny Deng, Assistant Professor
Academic Department: Division of Occupational Therapy
Classification: For Credit
Position Availability:
- Spring
- Fall
Level(s):
- Junior
- Senior
Appropriate Major(s):
- Psychology/Integrative Neuroscience
Minimum GPA (if applicable):
Pre-requisite coursework/experience: (see the description)
Application Deadline: August 15, 2026
Application Procedure:
Interested students should email the following materials:
1. A brief statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs) describing your interest in psychology/neuroscience research and your availability during the academic year
2. Your resume or CV (Incl
Student Research Assistant - cognitive neuroscience, immersive learning, and human-subject experimental design
Description:
This project investigates the effectiveness of immersive virtual reality (VR) in neuroscience education using a structured, block-based learning design. The study examines how different learning modalities (VR 3D, VR 2D, and traditional 2D computer-based learning) influence knowledge acquisition, engagement, and physiological responses.
The undergraduate research assistant will participate in a year-long research experience and will receive structured training prior to active involvement in the study.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
Assist with participant recruitment and scheduling (primarily undergraduate students)
Support data collection sessions, including VR-based learning tasks and post-test assessments
Help prepare and set up research equipment (VR headset and non-invasive sensors such as heart rate and respiration monitors)
Monitor study sessions to ensure protocol adherence and participant safety
Assist with data organization, entry, and basic quality checks
Maintain accurate documentation of research activities
Training Provided:
Human subjects research and IRB procedures (e.g., confidentiality, informed consent)
Operation of VR systems and experimental protocols
Introduction to behavioral and physiological data collection
Timeline:
Summer (prior to September 2026): Optional training and study setup
Academic year 26-27: Active involvement in recruitment and data collection
This position is designed as a credit-bearing research experience for psychology undergraduate students and may be taken for academic credit as a Psychology independent study (e.g., PSYC 397), subject to departmental approval.
Required:
Strong interest in psychology, neuroscience, or related fields
Responsible, detail-oriented, and able to follow research protocols
Good communication and organizational skills
Ability to commit to a year-long research experience
Preferred (not required):
Prior coursework in psychology, neuroscience, or research methods
Interest in human subjects research or experimental design
Basic familiarity with data collection or lab environments
Interest in virtual reality, technology, or behavioral/physiological measurement
No prior experience with VR or physiological equipment is required; all necessary training will be provided.
Appropriate major(s): Psychology, integrative neuroscience, or related fields
Faculty Advisor: Danny Deng, Assistant Professor
Academic Department: Division of Occupational Therapy
Classification: For Credit
Position Availability:
- Spring
- Fall
Level(s):
- Junior
- Senior
Appropriate Major(s):
- Psychology/Integrative Neuroscience
Minimum GPA (if applicable):
Pre-requisite coursework/experience: (see the description)
Application Deadline: August 15, 2026
Application Procedure:
Interested students should email the following materials:
1. A brief statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs) describing your interest in psychology/neuroscience research and your availability during the academic year
2. Your resume or CV (Incl